Research Papers

Research Papers / Science Project 2009-2010

Over the course of this year you will write 3 research papers, one each of the first three marking periods OR do a significant science fair project.

Research Paper

Initially you will have to come up with 3 possible topics that meet the subject for that marking period’s paper.

I will select one of the three topics for your paper.

You will then prepare an outline with references.

The finished paper will be typed, double spaced (12 font) with footnotes and a bibliography. The footnotes can be at the end (rather than at the bottom of the pages) if that is easier. (Maximum 1 inch margins on all sides; minimum ½ inch). The specific format of the footnotes and the style of the text will be discussed in class.

Subjects

First Marking Period A -"On the Shoulders of Giants"- History of Biology (Process of Science) Pick a biologist and do a biography, especially including how that scientist’s work has effected modern science.

Second Marking Period B -"On the Razors Edge"-Cutting Edge Biology (This year the HHMI lectures are on HIV/AIDs. Papers on this topic are encouraged.)

Third Marking Period C -"Where does it hurt?" Medicine in the 21^st century or -"Don’t Drink the Water; Don’t Breathe the Air" The changing environment in the 21^st century

While you can use some Internet sources they must be properly cited. In addition you must have a minimum of 5 primary print sources, at least 3 coming from peer refereed journals or professional books. If you have any questions as to whether a source is acceptable ask me before the paper is due. Encyclopedias and other secondary sources will not count towards the 5 sources.

For the first semester (Subjects A and B) the papers should be a minimum of 3 pages (not counting the bibliography and footnotes.). For the second semester (Subjects C and D) the papers should be a minimum of 5 pages (not counting the bibliography and footnotes).

(Hmm. Length. I used to hate having to write a paper of a specific length.)

Assignments

1- 3 topics

2- Outline w/references

3- Paper

Specific due dates will be announced on the web and in class. There will only be exceptions or extensions under extraordinary circumstances.

Email the paper as an attachment (Word or WordPerfect) for an extra 5 points. You can also earn 1 point/day for early completion (ALL days count, up to a maximum of 10 points). There will be a late penalty of 5 points/school day the paper is late (NO EXCUSES).

Science Fair Project Option

Adequate science fair projects will count as all 3 of the papers.

The grades for the topic and research plan will replace the grades in the first marking period and the project grade will be used for all 3 grades for the 2nd and 3rd marking periods.

You can opt to do papers in the spring if you aren't happy with your project grade.

Science Fair Projets are explicit experiments with Titles, Problems, Hypothesis, Materials, Methods, etc.

You can find information on projects at http://science.dadeschools.net/scifair/default.htm

No projects can involve humans or other vertebrates (I'm not filling out the forms!)

Since the due date for the comleted project will be in the second marking period, your grade for the first marking period will be based on a "status" report and may be increased on decreased when the finished project is submitted.